To examine the local people participation in tourism for inclusive development: a case of Budondo sub-county Jinja district.
Abstract
The objectives of the study included the following; to assess the activities that local people
participate in tourism, to examine the problems that limit local people from effectively
participating in tourism, and to examine the measures that can enable local people
participate actively and effectively in tourism. The study was conducted in Jinja, Eastern
Uganda, a location renowned for being the source of the Nile. Jinja boasts attractions like
Nalubaale and Kira power dams, industrial zones, lush landscapes, riverine forests, and
Lake Victoria. The district comprises three counties – Butembe, Kagoma, Jinja Municipality
– with six sub-counties, 46 parishes, and 381 villages. Agriculture thrives, while industries
include metal and sugar processing, coffee cultivation, and brewing. Lusoga is the main
language, and the 2022 population of Jinja City was 97,292. The study employed both
quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative data collected on June 20, 2023, included
numeric information such as employment figures and tourist arrivals, while qualitative data
gathered on June 22, 2023, through interviews, captured non-numeric insights. The sample
consisted of tourists, transport operators, lodge and restaurant staff, tour operators, site
managers, and opinion leaders. The data collection methods included face-to-face
interviews and structured questionnaires distributed among different levels of tourism
industry management in Jinja district. Findings revealed that the data highlights the active
and diverse participation of local people in supporting the tourism industry in Budondo.
Despite their involvement, limited financial resources, poor road conditions, and the
seasonality of tourist arrivals pose significant obstacles to their effective participation in
tourism activities. However, there are measures that can enable their active involvement,
such as conducting research to understand their specific needs and designing targeted loan
programs. Sensitization efforts also play a crucial role in educating the community about
the benefits of tourism. Collaboration between politicians and NGOs is vital in advocating
for infrastructure development and providing support. By addressing these challenges and
implementing the identified measures, stakeholders can create a more inclusive and
sustainable tourism environment, empowering local people to contribute actively and
effectively to the tourism sector in Budondo sub-county.